For a Dutch entrepreneur prioritizing better weather, lower taxes, lower cost of living, cheaper housing, stable government, and dog friendliness, the UAE (especially Dubai or Abu Dhabi) and Cyprus are the strongest candidates among your three. The Dutch Caribbean offers a familiar legal and linguistic environment but has higher living costs and less government stability than the UAE or Cyprus. None is perfect, so weigh tax structure, housing, and long-term residency rules carefully.

UAE

  • Pros: No personal income tax, very low corporate tax (9% above a threshold), excellent infrastructure, safe and stable, and generally dog friendly in expat communities with pet-friendly rentals and parks. Weather is sunny most of the year.
  • Cons: Extremely hot summers, high housing costs in prime areas, and residency tied to employment or business. Cultural adjustment is significant, and pet import rules are strict.
  • Best for: Entrepreneurs who want a business-friendly, tax-efficient base and can handle the heat.

Cyprus

  • Pros: Lower cost of living and housing than the Netherlands, Mediterranean climate, EU membership (free movement, familiar regulations), and a growing expat and dog-friendly culture. Tax regime is favorable for new residents and entrepreneurs.
  • Cons: Government bureaucracy can be slow, and the island is small with limited economic diversity. Summer heat and water scarcity are considerations.
  • Best for: Those who want EU proximity, a relaxed lifestyle, and lower costs without leaving the EU.

Dutch Caribbean (e.g., Curaçao, Bonaire)

  • Pros: Dutch language and legal familiarity, tropical climate, and a relaxed pace. Dog ownership is common.
  • Cons: High import costs, limited housing, and less governmental stability than the UAE or Cyprus. Tax benefits exist but are not as generous as the UAE. Hurricane risk in some islands.
  • Best for: Those prioritizing cultural familiarity and Dutch fluency over maximum tax savings.

Practical next steps

  1. Define your must-haves: Rank tax savings, housing budget, climate, and dog logistics. For example, if cheap housing is top, Cyprus may win; if zero income tax is top, UAE.
  2. Research residency and tax treaties: Consult a cross-border tax advisor about the Netherlands' exit tax and treaty rules. Check each country's residency-by-investment or entrepreneur visa requirements.
  3. Visit in different seasons: Spend at least two weeks in each candidate, ideally in summer, to test the heat and daily life.
  4. Check dog import rules: The UAE requires permits and health certificates; Cyprus and the Caribbean have simpler but still specific rules. Verify with official sources.
  5. Talk to locals and expats: Use forums like r/Netherlands or expat groups to get honest pros and cons.

No single answer fits everyone. Start with a shortlist, test it in person, and get professional advice before committing.